Saint Pierre and Miquelon Travel Information

Saint Pierre and Miquelon, a French overseas collectivity located off the coast of Canada, offers a unique blend of French culture and natural beauty. Here are the top 10 things to do in this picturesque archipelago:

1. Explore the Capital City of Saint-Pierre

The capital city of Saint-Pierre offers a charming blend of French and Canadian influences. Take a stroll through the town's quaint streets, visit the local museums and art galleries, and sample the delicious local cuisine.

2. Visit the Memorial Museum of the Deportation

The Memorial Museum of the Deportation offers a poignant look at the island's history, including its use as a deportation center during World War II. The museum also features exhibits on the island's natural history and traditional way of life.

3. Hike to the Lighthouse at Pointe aux Canons

The hike to the lighthouse at Pointe aux Canons offers breathtaking views of the island and the surrounding ocean. The lighthouse, built in 1854, is one of the oldest in the archipelago and is open to visitors during the summer months.

4. Go Seabird Watching

Saint Pierre and Miquelon is home to a diverse array of seabirds, including puffins, guillemots, and kittiwakes. Take a boat tour to explore the islands' rocky cliffs and bird colonies.

5. Visit the Distillery of Saint-Pierre

The Distillery of Saint-Pierre offers tours and tastings of their locally-produced rum and other spirits. Learn about the island's rich history of fishing and rum production, and sample some of the delicious products.

6. Enjoy the Beaches

Saint Pierre and Miquelon offer some of the most beautiful beaches in the world. The beaches are perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and picnicking.

7. Go Fishing

The waters around Saint Pierre and Miquelon are home to a diverse array of fish, including cod, halibut, and mackerel. Charter a fishing boat and catch your own dinner, or simply enjoy the beautiful scenery.

8. Go Kayaking or Canoeing

The waters around Saint Pierre and Miquelon are perfect for kayaking and canoeing. Explore the islands' rugged coastlines and spot marine wildlife such as seals and whales.

9. Visit the Botanical Garden

The Botanical Garden of Saint-Pierre and Miquelon offers visitors a chance to explore the island's unique flora. The garden features a variety of plants, including many that are native to the archipelago.

10. Take a Boat Tour

A boat tour is the perfect way to explore the islands and see some of the most beautiful scenery in the world. Enjoy the fresh sea air and the stunning views of the islands and the ocean.

Overall, Saint Pierre and Miquelon is a hidden gem that offers visitors a chance to experience French culture, natural beauty and outdoor activities. Whether you're interested in history, outdoor activities, or simply enjoying a relaxed vacation, this archipelago has something for everyone.

Climate

The climate in Saint Pierre and Miquelon is classified as a maritime subarctic climate. This means that the islands have cool summers and mild winters, with relatively high precipitation throughout the year. Average temperatures in the summer months (June to August) range from around 10 to 15 degrees Celsius (50 to 60 degrees Fahrenheit), while in the winter (December to February) temperatures can drop as low as -10 degrees Celsius (14 degrees Fahrenheit).

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Saint Pierre and Miquelon depends on what you're looking to do while you're there. For those interested in outdoor activities such as hiking and bird-watching, the summer months (June to August) are the ideal time to visit, as the weather is mild and the days are long. For those looking to experience the island's winter sports such as cross-country skiing and ice fishing, the winter months (December to February) are the best time to visit.

Additionally, the best time to visit also depends on your travel plans, if you want to avoid the high season which is June to August, and prefer less crowded places, the shoulder season (May and September) is a great time to visit. During these months, you'll still have the opportunity to enjoy the island's outdoor activities and festivals, but with fewer tourists.

Overall, Saint Pierre and Miquelon has something to offer year-round, and the best time to visit is ultimately a matter of personal preference.

Here are some general travel tips regarding entry requirements that apply across all countries:

Passport

Make sure that your passport is valid for at least six months from the date of your arrival in the country you are visiting. Some countries will not allow you to enter if your passport is set to expire within a certain period of time.

Visa

Check with the embassy or consulate of the country you are visiting to see if you need a visa. Some countries require a visa for entry, while others do not. Make sure to apply for a visa well in advance of your trip as the process can take several weeks. Check the latest Visa requirements and if necessary get an online Visa with our partner iVisa.

Health Requirements and COVID-19 Rules

Check with the embassy or consulate of the country you are visiting to see if there are any health requirements for entry. Some countries require vaccinations or proof of medical insurance. Check the latest health requirements and if necessary get an online Visa with our partner iVisa.

Travel Insurance

Consider purchasing travel insurance, especially if you are traveling internationally. Travel insurance can cover you in the event of trip cancellation, medical emergencies, and other unexpected events. Our travel insurance partner is SafetyWing. For dangerous activities and/or countries consider a rescue service like those offered by our partner, Global Rescue.

Customs

Be familiar with the customs and laws of the country you are visiting. Some countries have strict laws regarding drug possession, alcohol consumption, and dress codes.

Currency

Check the currency exchange rate and make sure you have enough local currency for your trip. Some countries may not accept credit cards or travelers cheques, so it is always good to have some cash on hand. At WhereNext we recommend use a Wise debit card, which provides low cost currency conversions and ATM withdrawals.

Research the country

Research about the culture, customs and laws of the country you are visiting. It will help you to understand the place more and also prepare you better for the trip.

Contact Information

Make a copy of your passport and keep it in a separate place from your passport. Also, leave a copy of your itinerary and contact information with a friend or family member at home.

Hotels

There are a few hotels in Saint Pierre and Miquelon, including some that are centrally located in the capital city of Saint-Pierre. These hotels offer comfortable accommodations and a range of amenities, such as on-site restaurants and bars, as well as internet access. Some of the hotels offer sea view rooms and balconies.

Bed and Breakfasts

Bed and Breakfasts are a popular accommodation option in Saint Pierre and Miquelon. These small, family-run establishments offer a more intimate and personal experience than larger hotels. They are often located in charming, historic homes and offer comfortable rooms, homemade breakfasts and local tips and recommendations.

Vacation Rentals

Vacation rental properties, such as apartments and cottages, are also available in Saint Pierre and Miquelon. These rentals offer the convenience and privacy of having your own space, and often come equipped with amenities such as kitchens and laundry facilities.

Camping

There is a camping area in the island, which is open during the summer months and offers visitors the chance to enjoy the island's natural beauty while camping. This is a great option for those who enjoy outdoor activities and prefer a more rustic style of accommodation.

Guesthouses

There are a few guesthouses available in the island, which offer a more homely and personal experience than hotels. These are perfect for those who are looking for a more authentic and intimate experience while visiting the islands.

Overall, Saint Pierre and Miquelon offers a variety of accommodation options to suit the needs of different travelers. From luxurious hotels to rustic camping, the islands have something for everyone.

Air

The main way to get to Saint Pierre and Miquelon is by air. The islands have an airport (Saint-Pierre Airport) with flights from several Canadian cities such as Halifax, Montreal and St. John's. Air Saint-Pierre is the only airline company that provides service to the islands.

Ferry

Ferries are also available from the Canadian provinces of Newfoundland and Labrador. The ferry service is operated by the Société des traversiers du Québec. The ferry service is seasonal, and it only runs during the summer months.

Car Rental

Car rental is available on the islands and is a popular way to get around. Drivers must have a valid driver's license and be at least 21 years of age. Visitors should be aware that some roads on the islands are narrow and winding, and may not be suitable for larger vehicles.

Taxis

Taxis are available on the islands, and can be arranged in advance or hailed on the street. Taxis are an easy and convenient way to get around, especially if you don't want to drive yourself.

Bicycle Rental

Bicycle rental is available on the islands, and is a great way to explore the islands at your own pace. This is a good option if you want to avoid the traffic and parking issues that come with driving a car.

Walking

Walking is a great way to explore the islands, particularly the capital city of Saint-Pierre. The city is small enough to explore on foot, and many of the sights and attractions are within easy walking distance of each other.

Overall, Saint Pierre and Miquelon offers a variety of transportation options to suit the needs of different travelers. From air and ferry services to car rental and bicycle rental, the islands have something for everyone. Visitors should plan ahead and take into consideration the time of year and their travel itinerary to choose the best option for them.

Money Tips for Travel

• Research the currency and exchange rates of your destination before you depart.
• Notify your bank and credit card companies of your travel plans to avoid any potential issues with international transactions.
• Bring a mix of cash, credit, and debit cards--and possibly a travel money card.
• Be aware of the fees associated with withdrawing money from ATMs and using credit cards abroad.
• Make sure to have a backup option for accessing money in case your primary method doesn't work.
• Consider using a card with no foreign transaction fees.
• Be aware of the local customs and etiquette when it comes to paying.
• Keep an eye on the exchange rate throughout your trip and try to make large purchases or withdraw large sums of money when the rate is favorable.
• NEVER accept currency conversion at ATMs! Always get your home bank to convert at much better rates.
• Think about getting a Wise or other travel debit card; these can provide much better rates and some free ATM withdrawals.

ATM and Credit Cards

• Research the availability of ATMs and credit card acceptance at your destination before you depart.
• Keep your ATM card in a safe place and be mindful of your surroundings when using it.
• Try to stick to using ATMs that are affiliated with major banks.
• Keep your credit card information safe and secure, and be aware of potential scams.
• Make sure your cards have the necessary security features, such as chip and pin.
• Be aware of the fees associated with withdrawing money from ATMs and using credit cards abroad.

Exchange Rates

• Research the currency and exchange rates of your destination before you depart.
• Consider using a card with no foreign transaction fees.
• Be aware of the local customs and etiquette when it comes to paying.
• Keep an eye on the exchange rate throughout your trip and try to make large purchases or withdraw large sums of money when the rate is favorable.
• Be careful of places that may offer to exchange money at rates that seem too good to be true.

Travel insurance can provide financial protection and peace of mind for travellers in the event of unexpected situations or emergencies. It covers a wide range of needs--even some you might not expect!

Medical Coverage

Travel insurance can provide coverage for medical expenses if you become ill or injured while traveling. This can include coverage for doctor visits, hospital stays, and emergency medical transportation. It's also a good idea to ensure that your travel insurance covers COVID-19 related illness and delays!

Trip Cancellation and Interruption

Travel insurance can provide coverage if you need to cancel or interrupt your trip due to unexpected events such as illness, weather, or travel bans. It can also provide coverage if your trip is delayed or if your travel provider goes out of business.

Lost or Stolen Luggage

Travel insurance can provide coverage for lost or stolen luggage, as well as personal items such as passports and electronic devices.

Emergency Assistance and Evacuation

Many travel insurance plans offer emergency assistance services, such as providing information on local hospitals and doctors, assistance with replacing lost or stolen documents, and help with arranging transportation in the event of an emergency. At WhereNext we have partnered with Global Rescue for evacuation services, which are highly recommended if you are undertaking dangerous activities or are travelling to dangerous parts of the world.

Liability coverage

Travel insurance can also provide liability coverage in case you cause an accident or harm someone while you are traveling.

Travel insurance can provide financial protection and peace of mind for travellers in the event of unexpected situations or emergencies. It can help cover the costs of medical expenses, trip cancellations, lost or stolen luggage, and more. It's always a good idea to review the coverage and compare the different options available before making a decision. At WhereNext we both use and have partnered with Safety Wing for general travel insurance.

When traveling, getting mobile access is very important these days. If you are working remotely, wanting to update social media, or need to access your banks SMS authentication messages having a reliable service is a must. At WhereNext we recommend:

eSIM

Services such as those offered by our partner, Airalo, allow you to easily order and install an eSIM for different countries or regions that you are traveling in.

Dual SIM phone

If you have a phone that supports dual SIM's then you can get a SIM on arrival for each country, this is probably better done at a telco store rather than at the airport.

Extend your home plan

Depending on where you live and your mobile service provider you may be able to extend your plan to cover mobile roaming at reasonable rates.

Keep your primary SIM

With the amount of accounts we all have that require two factor authentication via SMS, keeping a constant number for these accounts is a must.

There are several online communities and platforms that you can use to meet people while traveling, both for making new friends or for networking professionally. Some popular options include:

Facebook groups

There are many Facebook groups dedicated to connecting people while traveling, from expat groups and travel communities to groups specific to certain cities or regions of the country. You can search for groups based on your interests or location and connect with others who share similar interests.

Meetup

Meetup is a platform that allows you to find groups of people that share your interests in your local area. There are Meetup groups all around the world, and they cover a wide range of topics, such as language exchange, sports, and cultural activities.

Internations

Internations is a social network for people who live or work abroad. It has a large community of expats and organizes regular events, activities and gatherings that allow members to connect and socialize.

Couchsurfing

Couchsurfing is a platform that connects travelers with local hosts, who offer free accommodation and a chance to experience the local culture. It's a great way to meet locals and make friends!

Reddit

Reddit has a large community, and there are several subreddits dedicated to connecting expats and travelers. You can use it to ask questions, get advice, and connect with others who are also living or traveling in the country.

Linkedin

LinkedIn is primarily a professional network, but you can also use it to connect with people who work in the same industry or have similar backgrounds. It can be useful to connect with people before you arrive and establish a few professional contacts to help you get started.

At WhereNext, we use Nomad List as a global community and then research more local ones for our destination. These are just a few examples of online communities you can use to meet people; please suggest any others that you think are appropriate for this destination.